Pregnant woman stabbed near school

A pregnant woman is in a serious condition in hospital after she was repeatedly stabbed within the grounds of a primary school.

Emergency services were called to Green Lane in Stoneycroft, Liverpool, at 12.30pm to reports of a stabbing.

Police found a 28-year-old pregnant woman with multiple stab wounds. She was taken to hospital and her condition is described as serious but stable. Police said doctors are also carrying out tests on the woman's unborn baby.

A 39-year-old woman from the Stoneycroft area has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Earlier police appealed for help in tracing a woman described as being of medium build and wearing a black tracksuit and a hooded top who was seen in the area at the time.

The incident happened on a walkway within the grounds of Lister Primary School but well away from classrooms. It is not believed that any children witnessed the incident or that the victim was a teacher at the school. Officers have cordoned off the area.

Detective Inspector Martin Earl said: "This was a despicable attack on a vulnerable lady, who has been taken to hospital for treatment.

"This must have been very distressing for anyone who saw it and I would like to reassure residents that this type of incident is isolated and was not related to the nearby school.

"However, there may have been parents in the area who are able to assist our investigation."

He added: "At this time we believe that the offender was known to the victim and we have officers out on the ground, working to trace the person responsible. I would urge anyone who has any information to get in contact."